
Toyota Corolla is originally equipped with SC20HR11 iridium-platinum spark plugs, which can be replaced every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The spark plug is an important component of the gasoline engine ignition system. It introduces high voltage electricity into the combustion chamber and causes it to jump across the electrode gap to generate a spark, thereby igniting the combustible mixture in the cylinder. The spark plug is mainly composed of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and shell. The main types include: standard spark plugs, projected insulator spark plugs, electrode spark plugs, seat spark plugs, pole spark plugs, and surface gap spark plugs. Spark plugs are installed on the side or top of the engine. Early spark plugs were connected to the distributor via ignition cables, but in the past decade or so, engines in small cars have mostly been modified to have ignition coils directly connected to the spark plugs.

The spark plug model for Toyota Corolla is not fixed, it depends on the specific year and engine. Based on my years of experience in car repair, the older 1.6L engine commonly uses NGK BKR5E-11 or Denso K16R-U11, while the newer 1.8L may use NGK IFR5T11 or Denso SKJ16DR-M11. If the year is uncertain, it's best to check the owner's manual or have a repair shop read it with a diagnostic tool. Spark plugs are crucial for engine ignition, and choosing the wrong model can easily lead to unstable idling or increased fuel consumption. They should be replaced every 80,000 kilometers or so. I've seen many cases where engine vibration worsened after owners installed inferior quality spark plugs.

I own a 2010 Corolla, and when replacing the spark plugs, I found that it uses NGK BKR5E-11. However, my friend's 2018 model uses Denso IKH16, which shows significant differences between different models. I suggest you avoid guessing and directly check the owner's manual or look for the VIN code on the door pillar to find official parts. If you're doing a DIY replacement, make sure to use a torque wrench to tighten them properly—too loose can cause air leaks and affect performance, while too tight can damage the threads. After changing the spark plugs, the acceleration feels much smoother, and maintenance isn't too troublesome.

When assisting customers, it's often found that the Corolla spark plug model needs to be customized based on the engine displacement. For example, the 1.6L engine commonly uses the NGK brand, specifically the BKR5E-11 model. However, it's safer to have it checked at a Toyota 4S shop, as only the original factory manual provides the exact match, and aftermarket parts may not be compatible. Worn-out spark plugs can also cause issues like cold start difficulties. If you drive fewer miles regularly, it's recommended to replace them every 5-6 years to prevent unexpected stalling.


